Road trips USA: Florida + Florida | The Guardianhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/series/road-trips-usa-florida+florida
Indexen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015Sun, 02 Aug 2015 20:33:09 GMT2015-08-02T20:33:09Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015The Guardianhttp://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttp://www.theguardian.com
Florida road trip - TwiTrip interactivehttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/interactive/2013/may/10/florida-usa-road-trip-twitrip-interactive
For his Florida road trip, Adam Gabbatt was guided solely by tips from Twitter and Guardian readers. Starting in Jacksonville, he drove the length of the state, eating in classic diners, swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, air-boating across the Everglades and partying in Key West. Our interactive brings you the highlights of the five-day journey and reveals a Florida beyond the theme parks <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/interactive/2013/may/10/florida-usa-road-trip-twitrip-interactive">Continue reading...</a>FloridaRoad tripsUnited StatesNorth and Central AmericaTravelFri, 10 May 2013 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/interactive/2013/may/10/florida-usa-road-trip-twitrip-interactiveSteve Dennett/GuardianAdam Gabbatt in Florida Photograph: Steve Dennett for the GuardianBenji Lanyado, Adam Gabbatt &amp; Steve Dennett2013-05-10T10:45:00ZFlorida TwiTrip: day five – as it happenedhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/03/florida-road-trip-day-five
<strong>Adam Gabbatt</strong> made it to Key West for the final day of his Florida road trip, guided in real time by readers' tips. <br /><br /> Tips came in from Twitter (<a href="https://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt">@AdamGabbatt</a> #roadtriptips), and the Guardian's new tool, <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/assignment/51784cd3e4b06d5a5f3e286f/">GuardianWitness</a><br /><br />Here's how his journey through the state shaped up: day <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one">one</a>, <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/30/florida-road-trip-day-two">two</a>, <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/01/florida-road-trip-day-three">three</a>, <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/02/florida-road-trip-day-four">four</a><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-04T01:26:49.105+01:00">8.26pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Day five draws to a close. It's been quite a week.</p><p>On <strong>Monday</strong> <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one">I had a stonking brunch at Fox Restaurant</a> before heading south to St Augustine, <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one#block-517ea4cce4b0af9e26c1bfc9">where @karenzander gave me a guided tour</a>.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T22:04:41.441+01:00">5.04pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>The Porch</strong> is a friendly place. I got chatting to Jamie and Megan, who<br />were relaxing out the front.</p><p>&quot;I'm 44, she's 25,&quot; Jamie said of her companion. &quot;She's one of my very&nbsp;best friends. It doesn't matter in Key West.&nbsp;You can sit and chat next to someone who has three jobs and someone&nbsp;who has more money than god.&quot;</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T20:54:44.610+01:00">3.54pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam tried to have his breakfast at the much touted <a href="http://www.blueheavenkw.com/">Blue Heaven</a> Restaurant on Thomas St, where he was greeted by a band (ah, you really shouldn't have!) and a cockerel wandering the tables. He loved the place, but there was a 45-minute wait, so he went round the corner, to <a href="http://www.havana-keywest.net/">Havana Key West</a> on Duval Street and filled his plate with a big omelette with toast and potatoes.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T20:13:20.015+01:00">3.13pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Suitably attired, I headed for <a href="http://www.theporchkw.com">The Porch</a>, on Caroline St, on another recommendation from <a href="http://discussion.guardian.co.uk/comment-permalink/23258267">weeyin</a>, who billed it as a bar where locals hang out. It's my favourite Key West spot so far - basically the front room of an old house converted into a drinking spot, with a big oak bar in one corner and a shaded porch area out front. I've got a Dale's Pale Ale in a can - it's Friday after all - which cost $7.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T20:08:21.922+01:00">3.08pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Leaving the museum I was struck by a shop selling Key West branded T-shirts and caps for $5 a piece. Mindful that I haven't got any souvenirs yet, and keen to fit in with the locals, I got a Key West vest and flourescent yellow Key West cap which I am currently wearing.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T19:57:52.179+01:00">2.57pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Leaving Garbo's, I headed to the <a href="http://www.keywestshipwreck.com">Shipwreck Museum</a> on Mallory Square. It came recommended by <a href="http://discussion.guardian.co.uk/comment-permalink/23264972">weeyin</a> and costs $14, including the opportunity to climb up a tower and get views of the harbour and Key West. An actor pretending to be someone who has recently been shipwrecked gives you a potted history of people who used to salvage booty from ships that had run aground off the shore.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T19:55:24.527+01:00">2.55pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Mike Ward suggested getting a fish taco from <a href="http://garbosgrillkw.com/">Garbo's</a>, a little food truck permanently situated on Greene Street one block from the harbour. Two mahi mahi fish tacos are $8.75, while you can grab your own drink from a big cooler in front of the truck.</p><p>There's quite a wait as Garbo's is popular and they cook all their food on the tiny griddle in the truck, but it's well worth it. A little shadey seating area next to the truck makes for a perfect dining spot, watching people walk by and keeping an eye on a cockerel that was strutting around.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T19:31:41.724+01:00">2.31pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Now Adam <del>likes a drink as much as anyone, but he</del> requested a few teetotal tips to keep him on the straight and narrow 'til the sun is over the yardarm.</p><p>Mike Ward has been doing sterling tipster work today and has suggested the <a href="http://keywest.com/cemetery.html">Key West Cemetery</a> - located in the &quot;dead center of Old Town&quot;, which has a memorial with the inscription &quot;A Los Martires de Cuba&quot; (To the Cuban Martyrs) devoted to the &quot;heroes of the 1868 Cuban revolution&quot;, as well as a few choice epitaphs such as &quot;I told you I was sick&quot;.</p><p>Non-alcoholic: Shipwreck Museum is worth a visit if this is your first trip to Key West. Also the San Carlos Institute - Casa Cuba.</p><p>Another way to pass an hour or so away from the hustle of Duval St. is to take a stroll around Key West Cemetary.. Keep your eyes open for some light hearted epitaphs.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T18:14:27.359+01:00">1.14pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T18:12:43.897+01:00">1.12pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Hemingway lived here for 10 years in the 1930s, and the home is now<br />kitted out with posters, books and, best of all, six-toed cats.</p><p>According to the tour guide, Hemingway loved six-toed cats as he was<br />very superstitious and they're meant to bring good luck. There are<br />about 45 cats on the property, a mixture of six-toed and five-toed.<br />The cats loll about on furniture and generally invite themselves to be<br />stroked - many were asleep.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T18:12:41.303+01:00">1.12pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><a href="http://www.hemingwayhome.com">Ernest Hemingway's house</a> in Key West came highly recommended from lots of people on Twitter.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T17:12:34.007+01:00">12.12pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Mike Ward is working hard for us today - he's already left one tip for the Chart Room bar on <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk">GuardianWitness</a>...and here's one to soak up all the booze that appears to keep the Conch Republic afloat. Sounds delicious and could solve Adam's wait problem. And there's one for Cuban coffee at the <a href="http://5brothersgrocery.tripod.com/">5 Brothers Grocery and Sandwich Shop</a> to sober him up...thanks Tim Ferrett</p><p>Look out for Garbo's Grill on Greene Street its a funky little food truck, grab a Fish Burrito for lunch and wander down to the Marina, take in the view and hit Schooner Wharf Bar for some afternoon musical entertainment and people watching then amble over to Kelly's for Happy Hour Margarittas and wings.</p><p>5 Brothers corner shop on Grinnell Street for a Cuban coffee ...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T16:48:26.179+01:00">11.48am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>The live music at Blue Heaven was great (<a href="http://www.thedoerfels.com/">The Doerfels</a> - five brothers and one sister), and I'm always keen on drinking at breakfast, but the 45- minute wait was a bit of a turn off.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> 'blue heaven' for breakfast and is handy for Ernest Hemingway house</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> The 90 miles to Cuba sign is worth a visit. So is the Hemingway house, espcially if you like cats. Enjoy the street chickens!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T15:57:48.582+01:00">10.57am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Oh, and skip Sloppy Joe's, its a tourist trap. Go around the corner to Captain Tony's (which was the Original Sloppy Joe's).</p><p>Then go to the Green Parrot for music at night, and Blue Heaven for breakfast.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T15:23:50.523+01:00">10.23am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>On Twitter, <a href="https://twitter.com/murphyway/status/329959845400805381">@murphyway</a> had suggested staying at <a href="http://www.edenhouse.com/">Eden House</a>, but when I called yesterday they were fully booked. Quite a few other hotels in Key West were also full, so it's worth ringing a long time in advance.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> Brits on tour and a couple of weeks ahead of you. Try Eden house to stay in Key West and dine at Marker 88 in Islamorada.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T14:54:51.763+01:00">9.54am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Central Florida student radio station <a href="http://wprk.org/">WPRK 91.5</a> - “The best in basement radio” - get our day off to a really nice start with their Florida playlist. Lots of fun in the sun sounds from local bands like the bedroom laptop boy wonder from Jacksonville <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2012/aug/31/new-band-yuno">Yuno</a> to Gainesville's &quot;Sunsoaked&quot; Hear Hums and the washed-out sounds of Orlando's Saskatchewan Happy Friday Florida!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T14:39:41.387+01:00">9.39am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Check out the Chartroom Bar in the Pier House Hotel, Key West. Part of the fun is trying to find it.... The place is jammed full of stories and history not to mention free popcorn and hot dogs... If J.J. is tending bar you are in for a fun pit stop...</p><p class="element-witness--source">Sent via <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/" class="element-witness--brand" itemprop="provider">GuardianWitness</a></p><p class="element-witness--author" itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"> By <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/user/Mike Ward" class="element-witness--author-name" itemprop="name">Mike Ward</a> </p><p class="element-witness--date"> <time itemprop="dateCreated" datetime="2013-05-02T15:47:52Z">2 May 2013, 16:47</time> </p><p>Thanks to Mike Ward for Adam's first tipple tip of the day.</p><p>&quot;Tucked inside the sprawling luxury resort of <a href="http://pierhouse.com/Dining/chart_room.asp">The Pier House</a>, the snug Chart Room has stood on the same spot since the 1960s – in fact, the hotel was built around it as specified in the original contract. A dive hidden in the middle of a fancy hotel, this is a funky little wooden cave with photos of famous guests pinned to the walls: Tennessee Williams, Truman Capote, Jimmy Buffett – and offering free popcorn, hot dogs and peanuts, with the discarded peanut shells carpeting the floor.&quot;</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T14:20:52.305+01:00">9.20am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Morning! Key West was beautiful at sunset.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> If you want my 2 cents? Go to 2 Cents.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/03/florida-road-trip-day-five">Continue reading...</a>Road tripsFloridaUnited StatesSat, 04 May 2013 00:35:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/03/florida-road-trip-day-fivePhotograph: Kevin Sadler/AlamyThe end of the road ... Smathers Beach, Key West, Florida. Photograph: Kevin Sadler/AlamyPhotograph: Kevin Sadler/AlamyThe end of the road ... Smathers Beach, Key West, Florida. Photograph: Kevin Sadler/AlamyAdam Gabbatt2013-05-04T00:35:00ZFlorida TwiTrip: day fourhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/02/florida-road-trip-day-four
Adam Gabbatt is in Miami continuing his road trip through Florida, guided in real time by readers' tips. Next stop: Key West<br /><br />Where should he eat, visit, stay? Send him your suggestions below, via Twitter (<a href="https://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt">@AdamGabbatt</a> #roadtriptips), or through our new tool, <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/assignment/51784cd3e4b06d5a5f3e286f/">GuardianWitness</a><br /><br />Follow his journey so far: Florida day<a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one"> one</a>,<a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/30/florida-road-trip-day-two"> two</a>, <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/01/florida-road-trip-day-three">three</a><br /><br />Update: comments on this entry are now closed as Adam moves to <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/03/florida-road-trip-day-five"> day five</a> of his trip<p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T03:04:44.562+01:00">10.04pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>The drive down to Key West was marked by a heavy thunderstorm. I braved the rain, but it slowed the pace and limited the view of the sea as we slowly made our way south west.</p><p>About 30 miles away from our end destination the storm finally cleared, and I saw the sun for the first time since Wednesday. As the drive continued remnants of a train track, raised high above the water, sporadically appeared.&nbsp;The train <a href="http://www.flaglerkeys100.com/key-west-history">no longer runs down here</a> from mainland USA, but it makes for reflective moments as you speed past it.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> @<a href="https://twitter.com/salamandor3">salamandor3</a> @<a href="https://twitter.com/ariellec">ariellec</a> @<a href="https://twitter.com/wlrn">wlrn</a> I triple that Robert Is Here suggestion.. And check out No Name Pub on the way down to Key West</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> Brits on tour and a couple of weeks ahead of you. Try Eden house to stay in Key West and dine at Marker 88 in Islamorada.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-03T02:57:32.620+01:00">9.57pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Robert is here, a smoothie, milkshake and fruit shop in Homestead, was recommended by <a href="http://www.twitter.com/keysclaudia">@keysclaudia</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.twitter.com/ariellec">@ariellec</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/ashnpearson">@ashnpearson</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/salamandor3">@salamandor3</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/toomuchme">@TooMuchMe</a>, so I had to go.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/guardian">guardian</a> @<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> Robert Is Here in Homestead~must-stop near Everglades for fresh mango smoothies <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="http://t.co/uObPPhxLN7" title="http://instagram.com/p/YKztP6K4AF/">instagram.com/p/YKztP6K4AF/</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T21:46:27.082+01:00">4.46pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>On the way to Key West, Adam's using Vine. During a thunderstorm. While driving. While we wait for him to make it to the Conch Republic, some tips from Guardian Witness readers:&nbsp;</p><p>Right at the start of the road through the Keys, rescues pelicans and other animals injured on the roads. Drive carefully!</p><p class="element-witness--source">Sent via <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/" class="element-witness--brand" itemprop="provider">GuardianWitness</a></p><p class="element-witness--author" itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"> By <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/user/Ro8ert" class="element-witness--author-name" itemprop="name">Ro8ert</a> </p><p class="element-witness--date"> <time itemprop="dateCreated" datetime="2013-05-01T18:18:12Z">1 May 2013, 14:18</time> </p><p>Check out the Chartroom Bar in the Pier House Hotel, Key West. Part of the fun is trying to find it.... The place is jammed full of stories and history not to mention free popcorn and hot dogs... If J.J. is tending bar you are in for a fun pit stop...</p><p class="element-witness--source">Sent via <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/" class="element-witness--brand" itemprop="provider">GuardianWitness</a></p><p class="element-witness--author" itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"> By <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/user/Mike Ward" class="element-witness--author-name" itemprop="name">Mike Ward</a> </p><p class="element-witness--date"> <time itemprop="dateCreated" datetime="2013-05-02T15:47:52Z">2 May 2013, 11:47</time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T20:45:06.177+01:00">3.45pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam woke up in the deco splendour of the <a href="http://www.colonymiami.com">Colony Hotel</a> on Ocean Drive in South Beach - a relative bargain at $120 a night. Not such a bargain was his breakfast at <a href="http://www.newscafe.com">News Cafe </a>which came in at a quarter of that.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T19:42:27.972+01:00">2.42pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T18:54:44.969+01:00">1.54pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T17:48:25.688+01:00">12.48pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Joe's Stone Crab (11 Washington Avenue, <a href="http://www.joesstonecrab.com">joesstonecrab.com</a>) came <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/01/florida-road-trip-day-three#comment-23207983">recommended by lots of readers</a> as a Miami must-do.</p><p>It's down in the South Beach section of Miami Beach - itself an island off the coast of mainland USA - and right near where I dropped off my DecoBike.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> go to Coral Bagles in Coral Gables, incredible breakfasts and sandwiches!</p><p>We're recommending the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables, with its caves and waterfalls. Lots to explore! @<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23Miami">#Miami</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T16:19:42.343+01:00">11.19am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>This is a great place for authentic cheap Cuban food. Excellent atmosphere.</p><p>Visited there last year.</p><p>Thanks to:</p><p><a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> for a bite to eat in Miamihead to yard bird. It's about 4 blocks back from ocean drive. Great, cool restaurant.</p><p>Sushi samba in Lincoln Rd!!!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T16:10:02.190+01:00">11.10am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>On Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/perrygrove/status/329635057788678144">@perrygrove</a> said I should hire a bike along the south beach.</p><p>There are <a href="http://www.decobike.com/pricing.php">hire points</a> all along this southern stretch of Miami beach, and a swipe of the credit card grants easy access. It's $4 for 30 minutes but the price falls away the longer you hire the bike, so not too expensive. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T15:26:47.851+01:00">10.26am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> Later take Card Sound Road down to the Keys and stop at Alabama Jack's. Redneck biker bar on the water. Nicer than it sounds.</p><p>Shout out to <a href="https://twitter.com/ariellec">@<strong>ariellec</strong></a> who is working overtime with suggestions. This one sounds great. Any other good suggestions for beach bars, snack kiosks, shops, art, neighbourhoods? <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt">@<strong>AdamGabbatt #roadtripstips</strong></a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T15:21:55.407+01:00">10.21am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> Okay take the bike through Wynwood &amp; check out the street art everywhere. It's almost ridiculous. Makes for good Instagramming</p><p>Thanks to all those tweeting suggestions for Wynwood tour and Calle Ochos – <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/01/florida-road-trip-day-three">we did it yesterday and loved it!</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T15:14:01.907+01:00">10.14am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>The whole city is a visual treat, according to Miami photographer <a href="http://www.blasiuserlinger.com/">Blasius Erlinger</a>, who put <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/gallery/2013/may/02/a-tour-of-miami-in-pictures#/?picture=407842027&amp;index=0">this gallery of pictures</a> together for us.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T14:52:27.027+01:00">9.52am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Just finished breakfast at News Cafe. Was aghast when the check came to&nbsp;$30. But then this isn't a cheap area.</p><p>I'm now going to rent a bike. Miami Beach has a public scheme, called <a href="http://www.decobike.com/">Decobike</a>, with bikes lined up along the shore. Apparently you can just swipe your credit card and ride. We'll soon find out.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T14:42:33.239+01:00">9.42am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T14:32:44.984+01:00">9.32am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Waking up at Colony Hotel on Ocean Drive in South Beach.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T14:17:13.622+01:00">9.17am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Thanks SteveBest: Inaugural&nbsp;<a href="http://bogartfilmfestival.com">Humphrey Bogart Festival</a> in Key Largo starts today with showings of Double Indemnity and Sunset Boulevard (<a href="http://bogartfilmfestival.com/filmfestival/">see website for listings</a>). Screenings of a selection of classic Bogey noirs from the 1940s onwards run until Sunday. Perhaps a stop-off on the drive down to Key West?</p><p>c: @AdamGabbatt MT @WLRN: Humphrey Bogart Film Festival takes place in - where else? - Key Largo starting today. bit.ly/YoKW1j</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T14:09:45.224+01:00">9.09am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>First tip of the day from Chris Hardy for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jimmys-Eastside-Diner/113463148687221">Jimmy's Eastside Diner</a> on Biscayne Road. &quot;Retro gem&quot; with breakfast &quot;classics&quot; that &quot;hit the spot&quot; at &quot;prices that are a flashback&quot;, according to one review.</p><p>Brekkie with a Bee Gees soundtrack perhaps?</p><p>Jimmy's Eastside Diner on Biscayne for breakfast. One of the Bee Gees used to be a regular until suddenly died. Not from the breakfast. Or maybe it was...</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T13:37:28.467+01:00">8.37am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam is having breakfast and lunch in Miami before hitting the road again. Where should he go and what should he order? A Cuban sandwich? Some sort of Peruvian/Brazilian/US fusion dish? Florida stone crabs?</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T13:33:15.816+01:00">8.33am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Good morning! Wednesday began with bacon doughnuts in Naples, and ended with beer(s) in Miami Beach. It involved airboats, alligators (both viewing them and eating them), getting very wet in the rain, and then exploring Calle Ocho and Wynwood in Miami.</p><p>On Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/hangingwithmr/status/328860939715739649">@hangingwithmr</a> told me to stay at the <a href="http://www.colonymiami.com/">Colony Hotel</a>, and so I did.&nbsp;</p><p>.@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> If you stay in SoBe Miami then @<a href="https://twitter.com/colonyhotel">colonyhotel</a> is great &amp; 24hr parking is available nearby for $15, eat breakfast at News Cafe.</p><p>I don't think this bar is my kind of place <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="https://t.co/E2IypXcLll" title="https://vine.co/v/bQqu2hIrUuU">vine.co/v/bQqu2hIrUuU</a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/02/florida-road-trip-day-four">Continue reading...</a>United StatesFloridaRoad tripsMiamiFri, 03 May 2013 02:04:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/02/florida-road-trip-day-fourPhotograph: PRA Cuban take on a fish sandwich at La CamaroneraPhotograph: AlamyThe Colony Hotel on Ocean Drive, where Adam spent the night. Photograph: /AlamyPhotograph: AlamyThe Colony Hotel on Ocean Drive, where Adam spent the night. Photograph: /AlamyAdam Gabbatt2013-05-03T02:04:00ZA tour of Miami - in pictureshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2013/may/02/a-tour-of-miami-in-pictures
Miami is a visual feast. From its candy-coloured art deco buildings to its graffiti-covered streets. Even its car parks are works of architectural wonder. Photographer <strong>Blasius Erlinger</strong> captures a city awash with great art <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2013/may/02/a-tour-of-miami-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>MiamiTravelUnited StatesFloridaThu, 02 May 2013 12:22:09 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2013/may/02/a-tour-of-miami-in-picturesBlasius ErlingerThe Design District for Miami City Guide Photograph: Blasius ErlingerGuardian Staff2013-05-02T12:22:09ZFlorida TwiTrip: day three – as it happenedhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/florida-road-trip-day-three
Read back through day three of Adam Gabbatt's road trip through Florida, guided in real time by readers' tips. After waking up in Naples, he headed onward to look for alligators in the Everglades, before winding up in Miami for the night.<br /><br />Update: comments on this section are now closed, but you can <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/02/florida-road-trip-day-four">join Adam on day four</a> to leave tips for Miami and Key West<br /><br /> Follow his journey so far: <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one">Florida day one</a>, <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/30/florida-road-trip-day-two">Florida day two</a><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T04:46:13.230+01:00">11.46pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Today began with bacon donuts in Naples, and ended with beer in Miami Beach. It involved airboats, alligators – both viewing them and eating them – getting very wet in the rain and then exploring Calle Ocho and Wynwood in Miami.</p><p>On Thursday I'm looking for more Miami tips – particularly places to eat and some less-frequently visited areas, perhaps. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T02:12:44.251+01:00">9.12pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Wynwood came <a href="http://discussion.guardian.co.uk/comment-permalink/23210268">recommended by Richard Cole on yesterday's blog</a>. It's noted for its graffiti, and I headed straight to Wynwood Walls, a little park-cum-outdoor eating space with beautiful street art all along the warehouse type buildings that surround it.</p><p>The main area for graffiti seems to be off 2nd Ave between 22nd St and 25th street, and there were a few other people pottering around looking at the walls.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T01:24:41.193+01:00">8.24pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam took some time to explore <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/05/wynwood-street-art-picture-florida">Wynwood</a>, an eclectic, 'modern-art Lego village' district known for its street art.&nbsp;</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-02T01:15:29.693+01:00">8.15pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>I made my way to Miami, in buckets of rain all the way, and went&nbsp;straight to <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2008/feb/09/miami.travelfoodanddrink">Little Havana</a> at 8th Street (Calle Ocho) and 15th Avenue.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> I grew up in Miami. Best places there: Crandon Park Beach, Greynolds Park, Fontainebleau hotel, Calle Ocho and Lincoln Road</p><p>If you go to Little Havana you've got to go to Azucar Ice Cream @<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> :)</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T21:10:10.609+01:00">4.10pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam made sure his day got off to a supercharged start by combining breakfast and sugar-rush in the form of a bacon donut at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Peaceloveandlittledonutsofnaples">Peace, Love and Little Donuts</a> in Naples.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T20:02:28.473+01:00">3.02pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Heading east along the Tamiami trail I stopped in at the Big Cypress Gallery in Ochopee, as recommended by <a href="https://twitter.com/01steven/status/329330955540111360">@01steven</a> on Twitter.</p><p>It's a showcase of photographer <a href="http://www.clydebutcher.com/">Clyde Butcher's work</a>, set just off the trail around 20 miles east of Everglades City.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T19:45:20.616+01:00">2.45pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Thanks to greensox for thinking of Adam's appetite with this tip for <a href="http://www.joesstonecrab.com">Joe's Stone Crab</a> restaurant in South Beach when he reaches Miami. It started as a small lunch top counter in 1913, back when Miami was still a quiet backwater town, and served fish sandwiches. These days they serve all sorts of seafood as well as the stone crabs - and they round it off with Joe’s famous Key Lime Pie.</p><p>When you get to Miami you just have to go to Joe's Stone Crab in South Beach, you are just in time before the end of the season which runs to May15th. It isn't cheap but it would be a crime not to go.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T19:01:24.891+01:00">2.01pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Top tip from LouiseKirk for another watery expedition and gator-watching opportunity in the southern part of the Everglades</p><p>Take a full day eco tour trip with Garl's Coastal Kayaking when you get down to the southern part of the Everglades. They're based out of Key Largo, but they also meet people at Robert's Fruit Stand southeast of Homestead near the Ingraham Hwy entrance to the park. </p><p>The full day starts at around noon, and includes a couple of nature walks into mature hammocks, freshwater kayaking with alligators, and a sunset kayak in the ocean off the southern tip of the Everglades, with lemon sharks feeding in the shallow water. Then you do a night walk to look for alligators by flashlight. It's definitely a full day, even without an early start!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T17:50:09.305+01:00">12.50pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>I've just got back from the airboat trip through the Everglades, guided by the capable hands of Captain Dwain Daniels III.</p><p>We managed to get on the last trip for a while, as there's a heavy thunder storm coming. The airboats are metal, so you don't want to be on the water when lightning strikes.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T17:15:09.364+01:00">12.15pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>After all these swamps, Adam is heading to Miami, where he plans to spend the night. We've already compiled a list of <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-budget-hotels-hostels-bed-breakfast-miami">10 budget hotels and B&amp;Bs in Miami</a>, so Adam is spoilt for choice. If you only had one night in Miami, which one of these would you choose? Or do you have another reasonably priced favourite?</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T17:09:36.941+01:00">12.09pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Not far outside Naples is the Audubon Society refuge, where you can get into the glades on a boardwalk, and get close to animals and birds.</p><p>Shame we missed this one mikedow, sounds great but it arrived just as Adam got to Everglade City for his airboat ride</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T17:05:07.737+01:00">12.05pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T16:52:54.587+01:00">11.52am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>If you're heading to Florida but won't have time to get down to the Everglades, another good tip we've received on <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/assignment/51784cd3e4b06d5a5f3e286f/">GuardianWitness</a> is for the <a href="http://www.cityoforlando.net/public_works/wetlands/index.htm">Orlando Wetlands Park. </a>Nothing Mickey Mouse about this.</p><p>We just completed an alternative florida trip, ie avoiding the usual, so have lots of tips for you. This is defiantly a highlight, and is a gem. Forget the 'sheep' tours and the so called see wildlife trips, this is the one to see. We must have seen 20+ Alligators here, close up and personal! The place has a prehistoric feel about it, palms growing from the water and pelicans flying above the water. We walked 5 miles and didn't see another sole. This is reclaimed land, set up as a water treatment (natural) works. So, I'd give it ago..this is the real Orlando.</p><p class="element-witness--source">Sent via <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/" class="element-witness--brand" itemprop="provider">GuardianWitness</a></p><p class="element-witness--author" itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"> By <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/user/simongivens" class="element-witness--author-name" itemprop="name">simongivens</a> </p><p class="element-witness--date"> <time itemprop="dateCreated" datetime="2013-04-30T06:53:51Z">30 April 2013, 07:53</time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T16:42:56.578+01:00">11.42am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T16:37:07.920+01:00">11.37am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Thanks to mojoangel for providing the soundtrack to Adam's airboat ride. Top tuneage!</p><p>Molly Hatchet's &quot;Gator Country&quot; is surely <i>the</i> tune for this article.</p><p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmUeQ-o7n1c" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmUeQ-o7n1c</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T16:36:04.471+01:00">11.36am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Captain Dwain reckons we're gonna get a thunderstorm while out on the<br />airboat. It's gonna be a big one, he says. Possibly lightning. I've<br />got a waterproof poncho though so what could go wrong?</p><p>Airboat selfie <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="http://t.co/vcIB0syRZr" title="http://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/status/329617649761931264/photo/1">twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…</a></p><p>The biggest factor that contributes to all of our storms is the geography of our state. We are on a peninsula, which provides surfaces boundaries, known as the east and west coast sea breezes. Storms often occur along the boundaries and especially when they collide, ie almost every summer afternoon. It's also very hot and humid here for much of the year, which contributes to instability, which is like fuel for thunderstorms.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T16:18:36.107+01:00">11.18am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><a href="http://www.visitflorida.com/en-us/cities/everglades-city.html">Everglades City</a> doesn't look like somewhere you'd really want to stay,<br />but it seems to be a good spot for airboating. It's a small town<br />really, with motels and homes on stilts located off each side of one<br />main road.</p><p>There are airboat signs everywhere here, so without a firm<br />recommendation I pulled up at one that had the term &quot;captain&quot; in the<br />title: &quot;<a href="http://captaindougs.net">Captain Doug's</a>&quot;.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T16:10:58.478+01:00">11.10am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>The smallest post office in the US would have been worth a look. Apparently, its post mark is quite the collector's item.</p><p>Unfortunately, the tip from a reader came just a little too late and we'd already moved on.&nbsp;</p><p>The Ochopee (Oh-CHOP-ee) Post Office just outside Everglades City, FL is officially the smallest in the USA. This 7x8-foot building used to be an irrigation pipe shed for a tomato farm. It was pressed into service after a fire destroyed the Ochopee general store -- which also housed the post office -- in 1953.</p><p class="element-witness--source">Sent via <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/" class="element-witness--brand" itemprop="provider">GuardianWitness</a></p><p class="element-witness--author" itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"> By <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/user/Paradise_Coast" class="element-witness--author-name" itemprop="name">Paradise_Coast</a> </p><p class="element-witness--date"> <time itemprop="dateCreated" datetime="2013-05-01T14:08:53Z">1 May 2013, 15:08</time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T15:21:35.875+01:00">10.21am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Heading in to the Everglades. Beware <a href="http://www.nps.gov/ever/naturescience/floridapanther.htm">Florida panthers</a>!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T14:58:04.373+01:00">9.58am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>One thing I would love to do, but probably don't have time, is take up angelita's suggestion in the comments yesterday. </p><p>She said I should hire a jetski off the coast here, which would be amazing. The <a href="http://www.rentaseadoo.com">website</a> she suggests hires them out for half a day, a full day or a week. Maybe next time.</p><p>To burn off those calories and really see the best of the Gulf coast beaches you should rent a jet ski from rentaseadoo.com. They let you take the jet skis anywhere on the water you want between Sanibel and Marco Island, so you can ride between the Fort Myers, Sanibel and Naples beaches, have a great time and see dolphins and manatees as you go. Their skis are super-charged and really fast -so fun.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T14:38:03.326+01:00">9.38am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>On Twitter I had a suggestion to try &quot;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Peaceloveandlittledonutsofnaples">Peace, Love and Little Donuts</a>&quot;, which was described as a &quot;drive-thru&quot; doughnut place.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T13:59:44.130+01:00">8.59am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Not a bad start to the day. This was taken on my morning walk to the beach in Naples. I'm now heading off to follow a tip from a reader on where to eat breakfast.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T13:09:37.061+01:00">8.09am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Another great start to the day thanks to <a href="http://www.miaminicepopup.com/">Miami Nice</a> blogger Patricia. Some great tunes from the Deep Down blues of Muddy Waters to the eye-watering falsetto of the Bee Gees' Jive Talkin'- which was originally called Drive Talking and was about their daily drive across the causeway from Biscayne Bay to the Criteria Studios in Miami. Spam Allstars crop up yet again - making them the most played Florida band this week - and it's always good to hear the classic Walk on the Wild Side. Enjoy - and remember, <a href="http://open.spotify.com/user/guardianmusic/playlist/0RDk6AUMMWfarY6pHmLtLi">you can share your Sunshine State sounds via Spotify.</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T13:08:31.593+01:00">8.08am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Morning! <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/30/florida-road-trip-day-two">Yesterday was a lot of fun</a>. I learnt a lot about sponges and subsequently bought a $10 sponge that I don't really have any use for; I sought sharks' teeth (unsuccessfully); and I splashed about in what I later learnt were shark-infested waters. Although only small ones apparently, so I would have lived in any case.</p><p>Today I'm driving through, and stopping in, the Everglades national park. We're taking the <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one#comment-23154752">Tamiami trail, as suggested by reader Muratnal</a>.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/florida-road-trip-day-three">Continue reading...</a>FloridaUnited StatesRoad tripsMiamiThu, 02 May 2013 03:46:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/florida-road-trip-day-threePhotograph: PRMiami River InnPhotograph: Visual&Written SL/AlamyAn alligator lurks in the Everglades national park, awaiting Adam's arrival. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: Visual&Written SL/AlamyAn alligator lurks in the Everglades national park, awaiting Adam's arrival. Photograph: AlamyAdam Gabbatt2013-05-02T03:46:00ZRoad trips USA: Florida playlist from Against Me!http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/florida-usa-road-trip-playlist-against-me
To provide a soundtrack to our epic Florida road trip, we've asking local bands, radio stations and bloggers to send us their playlist for the Sunshine State. Native Floridian rocker Laura Jane Grace of Against Me! chooses her top tunes <br /><br />Share your favourite Florida tracks below or <a href="http://open.spotify.com/user/guardianmusic/playlist/0RDk6AUMMWfarY6pHmLtLi">add them to our playlist on Spotify</a><p>One of the renowned Florida punk scene's biggest exports, <a href="http://www.againstme.net">Against Me!</a> have found international fame with their fist-punching choruses and acoustic ballads. The band was founded in 1997 by lead singer and guitarist Laura Jane Grace, born Thomas Gabel, who came out publicly as a transexual woman in 2012. Grace's playlist runs through many of Florida's other punk greats, such as Hot Water Music and the Pink Lincolns, whose Suck and Bloat album cover was drawn by yet another local music hero, Iggy Pop. Against Me! are currently working on their highly anticipated album Transgender Dysphoria Blues.&nbsp;</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/florida-usa-road-trip-playlist-against-me">Continue reading...</a>FloridaUnited StatesMusicWed, 01 May 2013 13:47:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/florida-usa-road-trip-playlist-against-meguardian.co.ukKeeping the beats fresh. Sweat Records, Miami, an indie music store and cafeLaura Jane Grace2013-05-01T13:47:00ZFlorida TwiTrip: day two – as it happenedhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/30/florida-road-trip-day-two
It's day two of Adam Gabbatt's Florida road trip, guided in real time by readers' tips. He's currently in St Petersburg, before heading south towards the Everglades. Where should he go next? You decide. <br /><br /><strong>Update: </strong>Adam is now on day three of his trip. Read all about it and post your tips <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/01/florida-road-trip-day-three">here</a>.<p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T04:51:22.269+01:00">11.51pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>It took about an hour and a half to drive from Venice down to its<br />fellow Italian-named town, Naples.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-05-01T03:01:40.086+01:00">10.01pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam made the drive to Naples, where he's currently indulging in three different types of oysters at Sea Salt:&nbsp;</p><p>Trying three different kinds of oysters at Sea Salt. Friendly service. Naples, FL <a href="https://t.co/0UQA1XFn8b" title="https://vine.co/v/bxlZQHtz39b">vine.co/v/bxlZQHtz39b</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T23:37:43.860+01:00">6.37pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam cools off in the sea toward the end of day two.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T23:07:40.850+01:00">6.07pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>I still haven't found a shark tooth. But I've been chatting to a man<br />who introduced himself as &quot;retired Mike&quot;, from Chicago. He's sat on<br />the pier that extends out from Sharky's on Venice beach, smoking a<br />cigar and apparently monitoring three fishing rods.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T22:17:02.525+01:00">5.17pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>My grouper - &quot;Cajun blackened&quot; - was delicious. It came with tartare sauce, which was very good as well.&nbsp;</p><p>We haven't found a shark's tooth yet. I came close but closer inspection revealed that my find was a bendy straw.&nbsp;</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T21:50:40.638+01:00">4.50pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>I've arrived at &quot;Sharky's on the pier&quot;. It's a restaurant/bar about 15m from the beach. It also has a pier, hence the name, which extends 50m out into the Gulf and is a popular fishing spot - apparently grouper is among the things you can catch.&nbsp;</p><p>This place was suggested by reader Marcia and by <a href="http://www.twitter.com/floridarambler">@Floridarambler</a> on Twitter.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> Good place to stop on your way south is Shark Tooth Capitol in Venice, go 2 beach north of pier.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T21:26:16.792+01:00">4.26pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T20:46:25.740+01:00">3.46pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam started his day with an eleventy-million-calorie breakfast at <a href="http://biffburgers.com">Biff-Burger,</a> an old school diner in St Petersburg that likes to put a smile on people's faces and a notch on their belts.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T19:44:28.696+01:00">2.44pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam has managed to wrench himself off from the beach and is now heading down to Venice ...</p><p><em>&quot;Going to look for shark teeth on the beach&quot;</em></p><p>Hey, there's plenty more alligator farms in Florida! lol Venice Beach has shark teeth you can pickup along the beach. Great restaurant there is &quot;Sharkeys&quot;! Used to be a big restaurant in St Pete called The Kapok Tree Inn, but it is not longer there.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T19:22:51.754+01:00">2.22pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T19:15:30.823+01:00">2.15pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Nice thought from Marcia Douglas - but we can't find the exact store. Marcia, if you're reading, can you supply a name? Just in case Adam wants to cool off after the beach?</p><p>One more thought, if you have time to go through Siesta Key (near St. Armands Circle), there's a gelato shop there, that was on one of Oprah's favorites list and the guys who run it, were fire fighters in NYC on 9/11/11. Interesting visit there and delicious gelato.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T18:44:40.436+01:00">1.44pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Moving on from the sponges, <a href="http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/06_howard.htm">Fred Howard Park</a> is a sandbar that shoots out from the coast of Tarpon Springs. You can drive right out into the<br />Gulf of Mexico along a narrow, sloping blacktop road which plunges down<br />into the water on either side.</p><p>I'm here now snooping around and getting jealous of the people<br />launching jet skis and canoes from the side of the sloping road.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T18:25:50.353+01:00">1.25pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Tonight we're heading toward Naples, ahead of driving the <a href="http://www.miami.com/traveling_the_tamiami_trail">Tamiami Trail </a>tomorrow - and hopefully seeing some alligators.</p><p>Any tips on where to stay would be great. Preferable a (non-Norman Bates-style) motel</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T17:54:38.374+01:00">12.54pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Buying a sponge in Tarpon Springs, looking awkward <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="http://t.co/QExA1Sz419" title="http://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/status/329274363994050561/photo/1">twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T17:17:43.879+01:00">12.17pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Touch down in Tarpon Springs.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T17:03:04.520+01:00">12.03pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Too many burger joints and not enough time. We know Adam enjoyed the Biff Burger experience this morning, but unfortunately there wasn't enough time to try another classic drive-in in St Petersburg, the Chattaway (22nd Ave S and 4th), which was recommended on yesterday's blog by <a href="http://discussion.guardian.co.uk/comment-permalink/23170477">dpierce: </a></p><p>Have lunch or dinner at The Chattaway on 22nd Ave S. Super cool garden, great atmosphere, best burgers in the area and super friendly and funky.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T16:35:21.630+01:00">11.35am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Looking ahead to Adam's next stop, Tarpon Springs, we found this fantastic 1960s footage of &quot;Epiphany celebrations USA style!&quot;</p><p>We also found a little explainer:</p><p>&quot;Tarpon Springs is a small Greek community located on Florida's Gulf Coast. The city boasts the largest percentage of Greek Americans in the US with a population of 23,434, according to the 2010 census. Once known for its prosperous sponge diving and harvesting business, it's now a charming and popular tourist destination.&quot;</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T15:42:06.032+01:00">10.42am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Now heading off to Tarpon Springs, which comes highly recommended from readers on yesterday's blog. It's a 30-45 minute drive north from St Petersburg. I'm going to be seeking out Greek cuisine and sponges. More on that unusual combination later.</p><p>I'd love some tips of things to do there – possibly something active, given the 5,000 calories I've just taken on.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T15:14:12.017+01:00">10.14am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Just eaten breakfast at Biff. I had two eggs, two sausage gravy<br />biscuits, two pieces of bacon, grits, toast and jelly.</p><p>The sausage gravy in particular was a taste sensation. I don't<br /> normally like biscuits (they're a bit like savoury scones), but these<br /> were nice and soft, and don't appear to have given me heartburn yet.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T14:52:57.275+01:00">9.52am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>This home-made video explains the appeal of Biff-Burger (stick with it, despite the slightly weird narration).</p><p>Biff (Best in Fast Food) has also become a bit of beacon in the community, doing more than just flipping burgers. There's a ladies night with a cornhole tournament (basically toss the bean bag), Jammin' Jack Atkin's one-man band, a classic car night and bike nights at the weekend.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T14:52:24.703+01:00">9.52am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Biff-Burger was recommended on yesterday's blog by <a href="http://discussion.guardian.co.uk/comment-permalink/23164388">julianem</a><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one?commentpage=1&amp;per_page=50&amp;orderby=oldest#comment-23164388">.</a></p><p>It turns out Biff-Burger is a St Petersburg institution and one of the last relics of a failed franchise bid by the Biff owners in the 1960s.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T12:45:35.444+01:00">7.45am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Good morning Florida! The good folks from wvum 90.5fm radio - the voice of the University of Miami - have set up the day nicely with their playlist for Florida, mixing everything from the mellow sounds of West Palm Beach band Surfer Blood - &quot;<em>the perfect soundtrack for driving to the beach&quot; - </em>to the Latin groove of the Spam Allstars. Drivers, start your engines. <a href="http://open.spotify.com/user/guardianmusic/playlist/0RDk6AUMMWfarY6pHmLtLi">You can share your Sunshine State sounds via Spotify</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T12:40:13.985+01:00">7.40am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>This map shows Adam's route so far (in green) and roughly where he will be heading throughout the rest of the week, as he makes his way down to Key West. He's happy to make some detours if you have some good suggestions.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T12:37:34.790+01:00">7.37am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Morning! Today begins in St Petersburg, Florida. I'll be around St Pete and Clearwater this morning before heading south in the afternoon.</p><p>To begin with, tips for a slap-up breakfast in St Petersburg would be hugely appreciated. Something cholesterol-heavy, perhaps.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/30/florida-road-trip-day-two">Continue reading...</a>Road tripsTravelFloridaUnited StatesWed, 01 May 2013 03:52:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/30/florida-road-trip-day-twoPhotograph: Allstar/AllstarBates Motel. Photograph: AllstarPhotograph: Allstar/AllstarBates Motel. Photograph: AllstarPhotograph: M. Timothy O'Keefe /AlamyTarpon Springs advertises its claim to fame. Photograph: M. Timothy O'Keefe/AlamyPhotograph: M. Timothy O'Keefe /AlamyTarpon Springs advertises its claim to fame. Photograph: M. Timothy O'Keefe/AlamyPhotograph: Ian Dagnall/AlamyHitting the road in St Petersburg, Florida. But where should Adam head next? Photograph: Ian Dagnall/AlamyPhotograph: Ian Dagnall/AlamyHitting the road in St Petersburg, Florida. But where should Adam head next? Photograph: Ian Dagnall/AlamyAdam Gabbatt2013-05-01T03:52:00ZFlorida TwiTrip: day one - as it happenedhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one
Adam Gabbatt sets off on his Florida road trip from Jacksonville to St Petersburg, guided in real time by readers' tips. Send him your suggestions below, via Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt">@AdamGabbatt</a> or through our new tool, <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/assignment/51784cd3e4b06d5a5f3e286f/">GuardianWitness</a><br /><br /><strong>Update:</strong> Adam is now on day two of his trip, heading from St Petersburg towards the Everglades. You can read about his progress and leave tips for him <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/30/florida-road-trip-day-two">here</a>.<p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T04:11:16.877+01:00">11.11pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>That's it, day one is over. We had the best coffee in Florida (allegedly) in Jacksonville, saw the oldest European-established city in the US in St Augustine, saw a very, very small alligator in Orlando, and made it to St Petersburg via seeing Airstream caravans stuck in the ground along the I-4.</p><p>Here's a video recap, featuring me sat outside &quot;The Moon Under Water&quot;<br /> in St Petersburg. I had a curry, of all things, because I was starving<br /> and because not many places were open when photographer Steve and I<br /> arrived.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-30T03:37:24.626+01:00">10.37pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>After the disappointment of Gatorland it was splendid to be offered a beer by Chris Hardy, an Englishman turned Floridian. We met at House of Beer. It has 42 beers on tap, although only one was from Florida, and it was a wheat beer, so I had a nice pint of Goose Island IPA. </p><p>Having a beer with @<a href="https://twitter.com/chrismhardy">chrismhardy</a>, who saved me after Gatorland disappointment <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="http://t.co/wNYQYIdaGi" title="http://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/status/328989754458767360/photo/1">twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…</a></p><p>Airstream Ranch - 8 airstream trailers half buried by the side of the I-4 - photo by @<a href="https://twitter.com/roadtripfl">roadtripfl</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="http://t.co/ZVu93auoyo" title="http://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/status/329038678108291072/photo/1">twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T21:59:40.424+01:00">4.59pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>So I made it to <a href="http://www.gatorland.com/tours_rookie_wrestlin.shtml">Gatorland</a>, the self-described 'alligator capitol of the world' and home to the&nbsp;Gator Wrestlin' Arena.&nbsp;</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T21:52:29.355+01:00">4.52pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>A few to consider:&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> I live 5 minutes from Gatorland, would be happy to buy you a cold beverage from the huge choice at House of Beer!</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> also you can get some great strawberry shortcake here, just off I-4: <a href="http://t.co/uzBoLW031y" title="http://www.parkesdale.com">parkesdale.com</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23florida">#florida</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23jealous">#jealous</a></p><p>You might want to try Allen's Historical Cafe in Auburndale between Winter Haven and Lakeland which has a fine selection of roadkill and less commonly eaten animals like raccoon, armadillos, opposums, alligators, snakes and etc.<br />http://www.dizzyrambler.com/features/AllensCafe/cafemain.html</p><p>I'm keeping an eye out for the wildlife while enjoying a 'relaxing' game of golf and believe me there are many alligators but most of them are more afraid of me!</p><p class="element-witness--source">Sent via <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/" class="element-witness--brand" itemprop="provider">GuardianWitness</a></p><p class="element-witness--author" itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"> By <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/user/Canadanne" class="element-witness--author-name" itemprop="name">Canadanne</a> </p><p class="element-witness--date"> <time itemprop="dateCreated" datetime="2013-04-28T20:04:01Z">28 April 2013, 16:04</time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T20:27:44.034+01:00">3.27pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T20:08:50.948+01:00">3.08pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Naples, Fla, native <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laura_Jane_Grace">Laura Jane Grace </a>from&nbsp;punk band Against Me! just sent us her choice tunes for the road - everyone with a Florida connection. <a href="http://open.spotify.com/user/guardianmusic/playlist/0RDk6AUMMWfarY6pHmLtLi">You can share your Sunshine State sounds via Spotify</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T19:56:58.333+01:00">2.56pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>St. Augustine, Adam's second stop on Day One,&nbsp;is roughly 30 miles south of Jacksonville.</p><p>@CautiousOptimist - You apparently have only been to the touristy side of Orlando. There's plenty of &quot;here&quot; here. </p><p>Adam, if you're coming down I-4 and don't think you're going to make it to Gatorland, try stopping by Leu Gardens for a nice stroll around a Botanical Garden, hit up Stardust Video and Coffee down the street for a caffeine boost, head over to Will's Pub on Mills for free gourmet bar food during Monday Happy Hour, try Tako Cheena down the street for Latin/Asian Fusion tacos and burritos, visit Pho 88 or any other of the numerous Vietnamese restaurants around if you're in the mood for pho or a bahn mi, or visit Park Ave CDs to check out arguably the best record store in the state. All of these are conveniently located off of Exit 85 on I-4.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T19:32:09.222+01:00">2.32pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Twitterer <a href="https://twitter.com/karenzander">@karenzander</a>&nbsp;(pictured above)&nbsp;whisked me round St Augustine just now. It's the&nbsp;<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_North_American_cities_by_year_of_foundation">oldest continuously occupied</a>&nbsp;European-established settlement in the US and celebrates its 450th anniversary in 2015.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T18:10:40.704+01:00">1.10pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Just a reminder that Adam is on his way to St Petersburg tonight (the one in Florida, that is). It's known as a great retirement city, because of the year-round sunshine, but what else is there to do? How should Adam spend his evening there? Any bars that turn its reputation on its head? And where should he stay? Post your suggestions below, or tweet Adam directly (<a href="https://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt">@adamgabbatt</a>).</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T18:07:36.394+01:00">1.07pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adam looking a bit out of kilter with the dress code</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T18:04:00.355+01:00">1.04pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>This is Jake, he's an armoured gunsmith at the Colonial Quarter in St Augustine</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T17:50:22.428+01:00">12.50pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>In St Augustine, at the <a href="http://colonialquarter.com/">Colonial Quarter</a>, chatting with <a href="https://twitter.com/karenzander">@<strong>karenzander</strong></a>. It's the oldest continually inhabited European city in the United States, she says. And these people are in period costume</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T17:15:34.154+01:00">12.15pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>As we're doing a series of road trips across the States over the next six months, we thought we'd better enlist someone who's got a bit of mileage under their belt to advise us on the tastiest roadside treats. <a href="http://www.salenalettera.com/">Salena Lettera</a> has logged over a million miles behind the wheel of a 75ft rig, and has visited all 49 of the continental US states. She has sampled virtually every regional delicacy … and here are her <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-roadside-diners-america-us">10 favourite at hundreds of roadside diners, restaurants and food stands</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T17:05:27.718+01:00">12.05pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Breakfast of champions: Fox Restaurant, 3580 St Johns Ave. </strong></p><p>A neighbourhood institution since the 1940s. It's just a couple of blocks away from Boone Park in the Avondale neighbourhood of Jacksonville, a pretty affluent suburb where two-storey white houses have sprawling lawns.</p><p>Fox Diner, Jacksonville. Check out the action figure-decor. C-3PO, Spiderman, Mr T... <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="http://t.co/W9HfCiSbqD" title="http://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/status/328875752269422592/photo/1">twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T17:05:12.423+01:00">12.05pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="element-witness--source">Sent via <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/" class="element-witness--brand" itemprop="provider">GuardianWitness</a></p><p class="element-witness--author" itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"> By <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/user/jeffstaple" class="element-witness--author-name" itemprop="name">jeffstaple</a> </p><p class="element-witness--date"> <time itemprop="dateCreated" datetime="2013-04-29T06:52:59Z">29 April 2013, 07:52</time> </p><p>Unfortunately for Adam, none of these vehicles is the one he is using for his road trip. This picture of a row of Lamborghinis on a palm-lined Florida street was sent in by one of readers via <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/assignment/51784cd3e4b06d5a5f3e286f">GuardianWitness</a>. If you've got a picture that captures Florida life, you can upload it <a href="https://witness.guardian.co.uk/assignment/51784cd3e4b06d5a5f3e286f">here</a>.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T16:17:28.280+01:00">11.17am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Our friends at <a href="http://www.roadsideamerica.com/"><strong>Roadsideamerica.com</strong></a> offer a guide to more than 9,000 offbeat tourist sights in the US. <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-top-10-roadside-tourist-attractions">They sent us 10 of their favourite roadside attractions in Florida</a> - including the resting place of 60s TV star Flipper the dolphin&nbsp;</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T15:43:03.487+01:00">10.43am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Boone Park, Jacksonville. Lot of trees. <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="http://t.co/IVZjGpZi64" title="http://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/status/328871284173832192/photo/1">twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…</a></p><p>Boone Park was suggested by a person in real life. It's in the Avondale area of Jacksonville, just south west of the downtown area.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T14:46:02.928+01:00">9.46am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>First stop of the day - <a href="http://www.boldbeancoffee.com/pages/cafe">Bold Bean Cafe</a> (869 Stockton Street, Jacksonville). Thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/pricesquire">@pricesquire</a> for the tip. My Americano was very nice, as was the the breadline pie I had with it. It's quite a hip place.</p><p>First stop on FL road trip - Bold Bean for coffee. Thanks to @<a href="https://twitter.com/pricesquire">pricesquire</a> for the tip <a href="http://t.co/17aQpkWqsq" title="http://twitter.com/roadtripFL/status/328854565007015936/photo/1">twitter.com/roadtripFL/sta…</a></p><p>Bold Bean in JAX roast their own coffee beans. In this snazzy thing <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23roadtriptips">#roadtriptips</a> <a href="http://t.co/QRl5tWowDa" title="http://twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/status/328859168175968258/photo/1">twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T14:26:37.561+01:00">9.26am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>To help Adam on his journey, we asked <a href="http://sweatrecordsmiami.com/">Sweat Records</a> from Miami to create a playlist of Florida bands... here's what they came up with. Let us know what you'd have on your playlist for the Sunshine State. You can simply add your tracks to our playlist at <a href="http://open.spotify.com/user/guardianmusic/playlist/0RDk6AUMMWfarY6pHmLtLi">spoti.fi/14BCa2I</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T13:46:56.697+01:00">8.46am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T13:46:52.597+01:00">8.46am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T13:46:46.694+01:00">8.46am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Last night I went for a lovely meal thanks to a tip from <a href="https://twitter.com/pricesquire">@pricesquire</a> – Ben Price – on Twitter. He directed me to Orsay (<a href="https://twitter.com/orsayjax">@orsayjax</a>), a laidback French bistro just outside of downtown Jacksonville.</p><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/adamgabbatt">adamgabbatt</a> only here for the night? Try @<a href="https://twitter.com/orsayjax">orsayjax</a>. Great french/farm2table. If you're here tomorrow, try @<a href="https://twitter.com/blacksheepjax">blacksheepjax</a> for lunch/dinner.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2013-04-29T13:45:05.953+01:00">8.45am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Morning, and welcome to the live blog of my crowdsourced jaunt across&nbsp;Florida. It should be fun. I flew to Jacksonville yesterday, and&nbsp;today I'm hoping to get some top tips about places to visit/see/pass through. Guardian comments, Guardian&nbsp;Witness, Twitter, I'll hoover them all up.&nbsp;The&nbsp;only stipulation is I have to end up in St Petersburg tonight.</p><p>I've already had a few suggestions on Twitter and plan to have the&nbsp;&quot;best coffee in Florida&quot; this&nbsp;morning. There'll be more on that later.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-one">Continue reading...</a>Road tripsFloridaUnited StatesMon, 29 Apr 2013 21:18:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/florida-road-trip-day-onePhotograph: GoogleSecond stop: St. Augustine Photograph: /GooglePhotograph: GoogleSecond stop: St. Augustine Photograph: /GooglePhotograph: Steve Dennett for the GuardianCasa de Horruytiner in St.Augustine. Photograph: Steve Dennett/The GuardianPhotograph: Steve Dennett for the GuardianCasa de Horruytiner in St.Augustine. Photograph: Steve Dennett/The GuardianPhotograph: Bert Hoferichter /AlamySt Petersburg's floating chapel by the bay. Photograph: Bert Hoferichter/AlamyPhotograph: AlamyGrave of Flipper the TV dolphin Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyGrave of Flipper the TV dolphin Photograph: AlamyAdam Gabbatt2013-04-29T21:18:00ZA tour of Key West – in pictureshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2013/apr/29/a-tour-of-key-west-in-pictures
The Florida Keys are 'everything Florida – squared', writes <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-road-trip-tim-dorsey">Tim Dorsey in his ode to Florida</a>, and Key West is the perfect spot to soak up some of that unique tropical atmosphere where everything looks a little brighter, a little brasher and a little more intriguing. Photographer <strong>Nick Doll</strong> captures it all <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2013/apr/29/a-tour-of-key-west-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>FloridaUnited StatesTravelRoad tripsMon, 29 Apr 2013 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2013/apr/29/a-tour-of-key-west-in-picturesNick DollSloppy Joe's on the corner of Duval and Greene Street in Key West, Florida
Photograph: Nick DollGuardian Staff2013-04-29T10:45:00ZTop 10 live music venues in Floridahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/top-10-live-music-venues-florida
Tempted to go to a gig in Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville or Key West? Florida has rock, indie and punk covered … and some great happy hours to enjoy too<p>Founded by veteran music promoters, this mid-sized venue caters to a huge range of music fans in south Florida. A handful of recent and upcoming shows include such disparate artists as <a href="http://www.petermurphy.info/" title="">Peter Murphy</a> of Bauhaus, Suicidal Tendencies, <a href="http://www.ofmontreal.net/" title="">Of Montreal</a>, <a href="http://www.amigosinvisibles.com/en/" title="">Los Amigos Invisibles</a>, and Yngwie Malmsteen. It also has an incredible sound and light system, with an LED wall that gives any genre of performance some extra oomph. It's also worth checking out The Garrett, the smaller upstairs venue that hosts club nights and dance parties.<br />• <em>+1 305 377 2277, </em><a href="http://www.grandcentralmiami.com/V2/" title=""><em>grandcentralmiami.com</em></a><em>. Check venue website for listings</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/top-10-live-music-venues-florida">Continue reading...</a>FloridaBars and clubsUnited StatesNorth and Central AmericaTravelMusicCultureMon, 29 Apr 2013 10:06:41 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/top-10-live-music-venues-floridaPRPRGrand Central, MiamiPRGRAND CENTRAL MIAMILauren Reskin2013-04-29T10:06:41ZTop 10 B&amp;Bs and guesthouses in Floridahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/top-10-guesthouses-best-bed-breakfast-florida
From historic guesthouses with old Florida charm to luxurious inns and comfy lakeside cabins, the Sunshine State has a host of interesting places to stay<p>This elegant B&amp;B overlooks the Halifax river and takes its name from the dolphins that patrol the waters off its dock. The expansive great room downstairs includes a bar, sitting area and breakfast room, where a full Southern-style breakfast is served at weekends. You are within walking distance of restaurants and shops in the historic downtown area and a short distance from beaches , surf shops and Flagler Avenue's beachside galleries and eateries.<br />• <em>+1 386 410 4868, </em><a href="http://blackdolphininn.com/" title=""><em>blackdolphininn.com</em></a><em>. Doubles from $129 B&amp;B</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/top-10-guesthouses-best-bed-breakfast-florida">Continue reading...</a>FloridaBed and breakfastsHotelsBudget travelUnited StatesNorth and Central AmericaTravelMon, 29 Apr 2013 08:44:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/29/top-10-guesthouses-best-bed-breakfast-floridaPRThe Black Dolphin Inn overlooks the Halifax riverPRBlack Dolphin Inn, FloridaBonnie Gross and Bob Rountree2013-04-29T08:44:00ZFlorida panhandle: a foodie road triphttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-panhandle-food-road-trip
North Florida's panhandle has wild rivers, cypress swamps and undeveloped coasts, which means its restaurant and shacks serve some of the tastiest cuisine in the state, including fantastic – and cheap – seafood<p>In the 1930s, Florida turpentine workers described a place called Diddy-Wah-Diddy. It's a land of leisure where day-to-day worries disappear. If a traveller there is hungry, all they have to do is sit down and, before long, dinner comes running up with a knife and fork, yelling: &quot;Eat me! Eat me!&quot; As one book of Southern folklore puts it: &quot;Everybody would live in Diddy-Wah-Diddy if it were not so hard to find.&quot; And while it's true Diddy-Wah-Diddy isn't marked on any map, the stretch of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_Panhandle" title="">Florida panhandle</a> between Apalachicola and the Aucilla river matches its description perfectly.</p><p>The wild rivers and forgotten coasts of north Florida are some of the state's greatest treasures and produce some of its tastiest cuisine. Natives express surprise that the region is so overlooked by tourists, but take great pride in their condo-free expanses of undeveloped beaches. For the traveller seeking a unique landscape and a meal crying &quot;Eat me!&quot;, it's the place to be.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-panhandle-food-road-trip">Continue reading...</a>FloridaFood and drinkAmerican food and drinkRoad tripsLife and styleTravelUnited StatesNorth and Central AmericaSeafoodFishFood & drinkRestaurantsFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:10:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-panhandle-food-road-tripErik S. Lesser/Getty ImagesBoiled peanuts is one of Florida's local delicacies, along with mayhaw jelly and tupelo honey. Photograph: Erik S Lesser/GettyErik S. Lesser/Getty ImagesBoiled peanuts is one of Florida's local delicacies, along with mayhaw jelly and tupelo honey. Photograph: Erik S Lesser/GettyErin Chapman2013-04-26T23:10:00ZTop 10 activities in the Florida Evergladeshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-activities-florida-everglades
The Everglades national park is heaven for lovers of the great outdoors, with loads of nature to watch, tons of trails for hikers, and sailing, snorkelling and diving for watersports fans – plus beachcombing and relaxing for those who want a 'proper' holiday<p>The main road through Everglades national park has been called &quot;38 miles of nothing&quot;, but that's way off the mark. The road passes through every major natural habitat, including fire-shaped pinelands, sawgrass marshes, cypress domes, sloughs and mangroves before ending at the campground on Florida Bay. Drive slowly, stop often (there are numerous hiking trails, boardwalks and observation towers) and watch for wildlife. At the Anhinga Trail boardwalk, you can watch alligators and wading birds at exhiliratingly close range, while the boardwalk around Mahogany Hammock winds through a West Indian hardwood forest that contains the largest living mahogany tree in the United States. <br /><em>• Everglades national park, 40001 State Highway 9336, Homestead, +1 305 242 7700, </em><a href="http://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm" title=""><em>nps.gov/ever</em></a><em>. Park entrance costs $10 per car and $5 per cyclist or pedestrian</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-activities-florida-everglades">Continue reading...</a>FloridaTravelWalking holidaysCampingSailing holidaysDivingBeach holidaysTop 10sUnited StatesFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:10:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-activities-florida-evergladesAlamyA Florida alligator in the Everglades. Photograph: AlamyAlamyA Florida alligator in the Everglades. Photograph: AlamyTed Levin2013-04-26T23:10:00ZFlorida Keys' highway over the seahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-keys-overseas-highway
Florida Keys' Overseas Highway stretches for more than 100 miles out into the Gulf of Mexico, its 42 bridges bringing the archipelago within driving distance of Miami<p>The ideal place to start a road trip and get some Florida Keys attitude; it's located on Card Sound Road, a toll-road through the mangrove swamps from Homestead to the Florida Keys. Alabama Jack's sprawls along the side of the highway, built on pilings over a waterway lined with wobbly floating docks. It serves great conch fritters, sweet potato fries, grouper sandwiches and crab cakes. <br />• Mile marker 99.4, 58000 Card Sound Road, Key Largo, +1 305 248 8741, <a href="http://southflorida.menupages.com/restaurants/alabama-jacks/menu" title="">southflorida.menupages.com/restaurants/alabama-jacks/menu</a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-keys-overseas-highway">Continue reading...</a>FloridaRoad tripsBeach holidaysWater sports holidaysTravelUnited StatesNorth and Central AmericaFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:10:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-keys-overseas-highwayPRAlabama Jack's, the perfect start to a Florida road trip. Photograph: <a href="http://sexandthebeach.blogspot.co.uk/">
Maria de los Angeles</a>. Click on the magnifying glass icon to see a map of the routePRAlabama Jack'sBonnie Gross2013-04-26T23:10:00ZMiami's top 10 budget cafes and dinershttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-budget-cafes-diners-miami
Good cheap food in Miami takes in the seafood and Latin American cafes and diners you'd expect, as well as Caribbean, Asian and even Canadian joints<p>Joe's, an old-time Miami Beach institution since 1913, is famous for stone crabs, a local delicacy that can often cost more than $50 a plate. So what is it doing on a budget dining list? Scan the menu closely, and you'll find something that may not have changed since 1913: fried chicken, a half of a bird, for only $5.95. It's not only one of the best bargains in town; it's some of the best fried chicken in town, too. And if you want to sample stone crabs without breaking the bank, here's another insider secret: the smaller-sized claws may be a bit more work than the jumbos, but they're much less expensive – and they taste better.<br />• <em>11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, +1 305 673 0365, </em><a href="http://joesstonecrab.com/" title=""><em>joesstonecrab.com</em></a><em>. plates from $5.95. Open Tues-Sat 11.30am-2pm, Sun-Thu 5pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm (closed for lunch 15 May-28 July 2013)</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-budget-cafes-diners-miami">Continue reading...</a>MiamiFood and drinkRestaurantsFloridaUnited StatesNorth and Central AmericaTravelAmerican food and drinkFood & drinkLife and styleBudget travelTop 10sCity breaksFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:10:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-budget-cafes-diners-miamiguardian.co.ukguardian.co.uktguardian.co.ukAlamyClaws for thought over seafood and chickent at Joe’s Stone Crab. Photograph: AlamyAlamyClaws for thought over seafood and chickent at Joe’s Stone Crab. Photograph: AlamyDavid Rosendorf, foodforthoughtmiami.com2013-04-26T23:10:00ZFlorida by the locals: Miami art tourhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-by-locals-miami-art-tour
Miami is alive with street art, galleries and private collections. Here's a local's eye view of its cultural highlights<p>They look like museums and boast museum-worthy collections but the Rubell and the de la Cruz are actually large private contemporary art collections that are open to the public. They are well worth visiting, featuring pieces by Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, and other luminaries.<br />• <em>Rubell Family Collection, +1 305 573 6090, </em><a href="http://rfc.museum/" title=""><em>rfc.museum</em></a><em>. Open Wed-Sat 10am–6pm, adults $10, under 18 and students $5. Complimentary daily guided tour at 3pm</em><br /><em>de la Cruz Collection, +1 305 576 6112, </em><a href="http://delacruzcollection.org/" title=""><em>delacruzcollection.org</em></a><em>. Open Tue-Sat 10am–4pm, admission free</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-by-locals-miami-art-tour">Continue reading...</a>MiamiFloridaCultural tripsRoad tripsUnited StatesNorth and Central AmericaTravelLibrariesBooksStreet artArtArt and designFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:10:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-by-locals-miami-art-tourMiami Herald/MCT via Getty Imagesde la Cruz Collection. Photograph by Al Diaz/Miami Herald/MCT/ GettyMiami Herald/MCT via Getty Imagesde la Cruz Collection. Photograph by Al Diaz/Miami Herald/MCT/ GettyJordan Melnick2013-04-26T23:10:00ZTop 10 budget hotels, hostels and B&amp;Bs in Miamihttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-budget-hotels-hostels-bed-breakfast-miami
Miami's affordable places to stay include historic B&amp;Bs downtown, South Beach's art-deco boutique hotels and vintage motels in the MiMo district<p>The New Yorker, a classic motel designed in 1953 and protected by the city's <a href="http://www.historicpreservationmiami.com/" title="">Historic Preservation Board</a>, could serve as the set for a Miami episode of Mad Men. A careful restoration in 2009 breathed new life into the 55-room property. Today, the historic boutique hotel is a stylish centrepiece of Miami's Modern Architectural District (MiMo), also known as &quot;MiMo on BiBo&quot;, referring to its location on Biscayne Boulevard north of the popular Design District. The owners have maintained plenty of retro details: the powder blue and white colour scheme, the original &quot;New Yorker Motel&quot; neon sign, while updating guest rooms and invigorating the petite outdoor garden and swimming pool.<br />• <em>+1 305 759 5823, </em><a href="http://www.hotelnewyorkermiami.com/" title=""><em>hotelnewyorkermiami.com</em></a><em>. Doubles from $75 room only</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-budget-hotels-hostels-bed-breakfast-miami">Continue reading...</a>MiamiHotelsBed and breakfastsBudget travelFloridaUnited StatesNorth and Central AmericaTravelHostelsCity breaksTop 10sFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:10:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-budget-hotels-hostels-bed-breakfast-miamiAdrian GautPhotograph: Adrian GautAlamyPRAlamyPhotograph: Jeff Greenberg/Alamyguardian.co.ukMiami hotels and hostels serve up a range of design styles, such as the 1950s-inspired New Yorker Boutique Hotelguardian.co.ukMiami hotels and hostels serve up a range of design styles, such as the 1950s-inspired New Yorker Boutique Hotelguardian.co.ukMiami hotels and hostels serve up a range of design styles, such as the 1950s-inspired New Yorker Boutique HotelBridget Gleeson2013-04-26T23:10:00ZFlorida road trip: welcome to the weird and the wonderfulhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-road-trip-tim-dorsey
'Florida, no appointments and a full tank of gas.' That's writer Tim Dorsey's motto for a road trip as he leads us on a weird and wonderful tour of roadhouses, gator nuggets and airboat rides into the swamps<p>Florida's reputation is literally all over the map. First there's the whole tropical intrigue angle: intoxicating postcard views with a splash of romantic danger, like&nbsp;the modern Casablanca immortalised in Miami Vice. Second, there are the headlines: <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/ondeadline/2012/10/11/eyeball-florida-pompano/1628051/" title="">giant mystery eyeball washes ashore on the beach</a>, three men seen carrying a dead shark on a monorail, police shoot &quot;zombie&quot;. We're the state that makes sea mammals wear hula skirts and changes the results of a presidential election with a so-called butterfly ballot.</p><p>Cultural academics have long tried to put their finger on the sun-drenched pulse with complex theses. But the truth is rather simple. We're just a really weird people. That's essentially the theme of my novels, featuring a road-tripping fugitive whose definition of happiness is &quot;Florida, no appointments, and a full tank of gas.&quot;</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-road-trip-tim-dorsey">Continue reading...</a>FloridaRoad tripsUnited StatesLiterary tripsTravelFood & drinkAmericanaCountryMusicAmerican food and drinkFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:10:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/florida-road-trip-tim-dorseyAssociated PressFlorida crime writer Tim Dorsey and friend. Photograph: Associated PressAlamyMiami South Beach at night. Photograph: AlamyAlamyMiami South Beach at night. Photograph: AlamyAssociated PressFlorida crime writer Tim Dorsey poses by his car Photograph: Associated PressTim Dorsey2013-04-26T23:10:00ZSix of the best beaches in Floridahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/best-beaches-florida
From Miami to the Keys, Dr Beach reveals his six favourite Florida beaches for surfing, family day trips, wildlife or just a bit of peace and quiet<p>Still the place to see and be seen, South Beach is where you'll find bikini-clad beachgoers, models doing photoshoots by the sea, and lots of plastic surgery&nbsp;... There are more plastic surgeons in this part of the US than anywhere else. At night the neon lights and beautifully restored art deco architecture are really something. There are also jetskis, powerboat rides and all sorts of activities. The beach is so wide they play polo with horses on the sand. You never really know what's going to be going on there, but you can guarantee that it will be over the top.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/best-beaches-florida">Continue reading...</a>FloridaUnited StatesBeach holidaysFamily holidaysSurfingTravelMiamiFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:05:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/best-beaches-floridaAlamySouth Beach Miami Florida USA Photograph: AlamyAlamySouth Beach Miami Florida USA Photograph: AlamyStephen P Leatherman2013-04-26T23:05:00ZTop 10 theme park rides and rollercoasters in Floridahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-florida-rollercoasters-theme-parks
Heading to Florida, and looking for a white-knuckle ride? Step right this way to read about the fastest, coolest and scariest theme park rides and rollercoasters in the US<p><strong>Cheetah Hunt</strong><br />This is one of Florida's newest rollercoasters and though it was designed to be &quot;family friendly&quot;, it's exhilarating. Intamin, another Swiss manufacturer, created this ride, using electromagnetic force to hurl trains forward, like a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Railgun" title="">railgun</a>. These thrusts are pulse-raisers, and you get three on the ride. Throw in a &quot;heartline roll&quot; inversion, a dramatic leap over the park's skyride cable, and an abstract &quot;tree&quot; that the cheetah train climbs, and then drops from, and you've got one of the longest (1,350 metres) and most flat-out fun rides in Florida.<br /><em>• +1 888 800 5447, </em><a href="http://seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-tampa" title="Busch Gardens Tampa"><em>seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-tampa</em></a><em>. Opening hours vary, </em><a href="http://seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-tampa/Park-Info/Park-Hours" title=""><em>check website for details</em></a><em>. Adult day tickets $85, </em><a href="http://seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-tampa/Book-Online/Tickets/AllTicketsTourists?from=Additional_Options" title=""><em>view ticket offers online</em></a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-florida-rollercoasters-theme-parks">Continue reading...</a>FloridaTheme parksUnited StatesTop 10sFamily holidaysNorth and Central AmericaTravelFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:04:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/top-10-florida-rollercoasters-theme-parksEdmund D. Fountain/ Edmund D. Fountain/ZUMA Press/CorbisCheetah Hunt, Busch Gardens Tampa. Photograph: Edmund D Fountain/CorbisEdmund D. Fountain/ Edmund D. Fountain/ZUMA Press/CorbisCheetah Hunt, Busch Gardens Tampa. Photograph: Edmund D Fountain/CorbisRobert Coker2013-04-26T23:04:00Z